One of India’s most respected former cricketers, Harbhajan Singh, launched a sharp rebuttal at ex-Pakistan pacer Tanvir Ahmed after the latter questioned his conduct during a recent broadcast assignment in the UAE.

The controversy began when Harbhajan, who was working as a commentator in the International League T20 (ILT20), interviewed Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq following a match-winning performance. Tariq had claimed three wickets and was adjudged Player of the Match.

Tanvir allegedly criticised Harbhajan for “roaming around with Pakistani cricketers,” a remark that did not sit well with the former India off-spinner.

In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan strongly refuted the suggestion and questioned Tanvir’s remarks.

“I don’t even know who this person is,” Harbhajan said. “He has played just a handful of matches for Pakistan but talks as if he is Imran Khan, Wasim Akram or Waqar Younis. None of Pakistan’s greats speak like this. Shame on you.”

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Harbhajan clarified that interviewing Tariq was simply part of his professional responsibilities as a broadcaster.

“When someone wins the Player of the Match award, it is my job to ask questions. Usman Tariq took three wickets and won the game for his team. As a broadcaster, I am supposed to speak to him,” he explained.

He added that had he not conducted the interview, it might have led to different allegations.

“If I hadn’t asked him questions, the same people would have said I ignored him because he is from Pakistan. Instead, he says I go around Pakistani cricketers. That is baseless.”

Growing visibly frustrated in the video, Harbhajan urged Tanvir to show respect and refrain from making what he termed irresponsible comments.

“There is a difference between someone who has played five matches and someone who has played over 100. Achievements matter. People who have done nothing sit on small platforms and talk nonsense,” he said.

Harbhajan concluded by warning Tanvir against repeating such remarks in the future.